Jason
UPDATE:
3.5 stars. For the full podcast discussion and review, listen to the episode here.
—–
Read for the next episode of the Shit We've Read: After Dark podcast. Rating and link to episode to come later.
Inspired by H.G. Wells' The Island of Doctor Moreau, Moreno-Garcia instead sets her reimagining of the well-known story in 19th Century Mexico, using the very real historical conflict of The Yucatan Caste War, between the Maya people and the Mexican government, as a backdrop to explore the political ramifications of the hybrids' “otherness”. That said, you do not need to be familiar with Wells' original book, or even the historical inspiration, to enjoy this novel.
While I did ultimately enjoy this novel, the biggest challenge while reading it is that it starts a little slowly. That might lose some readers early on, but that setup is important—making you think at every turn by asking heavy questions about science, religion, colonialism, resistance, colorism, and the agency of women—leading to an action-packed second half.
I've read a number of Moreno-Garcia's novels and while this one is not my favorite, it is inarguably well-written with an engaging plot and solid characters. I just didn't connect with it as much as some of her other works.
If you're a fan of reimagined classics, I'd say this is definitely one of the better ones.
Thanks to Random House Publishing, Del Rey Books, and NetGalley for allowing me to read this digital review copy in exchange for an honest review.
UPDATE:
3.5 stars. For the full podcast discussion and review, listen to the episode here.
—–
Read for the next episode of the Shit We've Read: After Dark podcast. Rating and link to episode to come later.